Assam: Civil groups call for action as an ONGC gas leak incites rage in Sivasagar

As the gas leak from ONGC’s Rig No. 147(a) at Bhotiyapara Badi Chowk continues, local activist groups—including Asomiya Yuba Manch and Sangrami Sena, with strong support from Bir Lachit Sena—launched a joint protest on June 17. Demonstrators rallied against what they described as gross negligence by ONGC and SK Petro, demanding immediate redressal for affected residents. Protesters highlighted the lack of timely action and called for prompt compensation, better relief facilities, and a transparent inquiry into the incident. They warned of further escalation if their demands remain unmet.

Gauhati University releases a podcast honoring its academic and cultural heritage.

Gauhati University has introduced its official podcast, Chai, Chatters and Chapters, to bring the institution’s academic legacy, cultural richness, and research achievements to a global audience. The debut episode, featuring Vice Chancellor Nani Gopal Mahanta, is now available on the university’s Facebook and YouTube channels. The podcast will highlight groundbreaking research, student-led initiatives, and cultural activities, while also addressing themes such as sustainability and global challenges. By blending academic excellence with cultural storytelling, Gauhati University aims to foster meaningful conversations and reach listeners far beyond its campus.

In Barpeta, Assam, a cybersecurity program raises MSME awareness.

A Cybersecurity Capacity Building Programme for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) was recently conducted at the District Industries and Commerce Centre in Barpeta. The workshop, inaugurated by Additional District Commissioner Jayanta Bora, ACS, brought together local business owners, aspiring entrepreneurs, and women participants to enhance digital resilience through practical cybersecurity insights. Led by experts from CUTS International, the event was well received, with attendees eager to apply their new knowledge to protect and grow their businesses.

The gas leak has been contained, and ONGC consulted experts: Bhaskar Chowdhury, asset head for Assam

In response to the ongoing gas leakage from ONGC’s rig sites in Sivasagar district since June 12, ONGC officials assured the public that containment efforts are in full swing and the situation remains under control. At a press conference held at a temporary relief camp, Executive Director Bhaskar Chowdhury emphasized the company’s commitment to resolving the issue, highlighting the involvement of national and international experts and dismissing rumors about relocating ONGC operations from the area. An internal investigation has also been launched regarding the role of private contractor S.K. Petro in the incident.

CM Himanta Confirms IndiGo’s New Flight Services in Assam.

“In a significant boost to air connectivity in Assam, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced the launch of a new direct IndiGo flight between Delhi and Jorhat, starting September 20, 2025. The announcement followed high-level discussions with IndiGo’s management in New Delhi, focusing on enhancing regional and national connectivity for Assam. In addition to the Delhi–Jorhat service, IndiGo will introduce extra early morning daily flights on the Guwahati–Silchar and Guwahati–Dibrugarh routes, aimed at benefiting daily commuters, students, and professionals. Further strengthening the state’s air links, a direct Guwahati–Navi Mumbai flight is scheduled for the winter of 2025–26, while the existing Delhi–Dibrugarh route will soon include a stopover at Guwahati to streamline travel for Upper Assam passengers. These improvements are set to make Assam more accessible and better integrated with the rest of India.”

In the Goalpara area, the Assam government launches a significant eviction campaign.

The Assam government launched a major eviction drive in Goalpara district on Monday, targeting 667 families—mostly from the migrant Bengali-speaking community—occupying encroached land in Hasilabeel village. The operation, marked by heavy security and the deployment of bulldozers, proceeded peacefully as officials aimed to reclaim 1,555 bighas of public land. Authorities also planned to demolish five lower primary schools within the village, while affected residents appealed for alternative accommodation. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ongoing eviction efforts to prevent illegal settlements and maintain law and order across the state.

Tomorrow, the Assam HSLC Compartmental Results 2025 will be announced.

The Assam State School Education Board (ASSEB), Division-I, has announced that the results for the High School Leaving Certificate (HSLC) Compartmental Examination 2025 will be declared on June 16, 2025, at 11:00 AM. Students can check their results online at the official website https://sebaonline.org or via the ASSEB Results App. To access results, candidates need to enter their roll number and number as given on their admit card (e.g., Roll: C25-0012). A PDF version of the digital Results Gazette will be available for schools, and the official Certificate-cum-Marksheet will be distributed in hard copy at a later date. This announcement is crucial for students who appeared for the compartmental exams, providing them another opportunity to qualify for higher education or vocational pathways.

Assam: Sribhumi Civil Hospital is on fire, and an AC problem is suspected.

A fire broke out at Sribhumi Civil Hospital on Sunday, June 15, after an air-conditioning unit in the Eye Department caught fire. Quick action by staff and local residents prevented major damage, and the fire brigade swiftly extinguished the blaze. No injuries were reported, and authorities are investigating the incident, preliminarily attributing it to a short circuit in the AC machine.

Guwahati hosts a bicycle rally organized by the Sports Authority of India and Radisson Blu.

PedalOzone, the vibrant bicycle rally organized by Radisson Blu Guwahati and the Sports Authority of India, brought together cycling enthusiasts and community members for its second edition. The 13-kilometre ride celebrated health, sustainability, and community spirit, highlighting cycling as an eco-friendly transport choice. With energetic participation and inspiring words from key officials, the event underscored the importance of a healthy lifestyle and collective environmental responsibility, echoing the global message of World Bicycle Day.